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Summer Speakeasy at Saltdean Lido!
We are incredibly excited to be holding our Summer Speakeasy at the stunning Saltdean Lido on Saturday 3rd May!
Here is everything you need to know about what you can expect on the day, the building history and significance, and importantly, how to book your tickets!
Join us for our Summer Speakeasy at the stunning Saltdean Lido, for an exhilarating dress-up-and-dance event that will transport you back to the Roaring 1920s.
Where: Saltdean Lido, Brighton, BN2 8SP
When: Saturday 3rd May 2025,
Time: 2pm- 5pm
Age: 12+
Tickets are selling fast so click the link below to secure your place. We can’t wait to dance with you there!
What to expect:
As described by previous attendees, the MyCharleston Speakeasy is the “The most inclusive dance event at the Brighton Fringe” so it really is for everyone! Expect to be transported back to the glitz and glamour of the roaring twenties with encapsulating pop-up dance classes, shimmering outfits and dynamic dance performances. Live music from local legends Soultastics will be sure to get your toes tapping as soon as you enter the building (what more could you ask for?!) with classic jazz tunes and a hint of Mambo rhythm.
Past events have featured themes such as Ragtime, New Orleans Jazz, and The Savoy Ballroom Taxis. This year, we’re adding a touch of ‘Spanish Harlem’ to the event. As always, this is a dress-up-and-dance event, so start planning your outfit - you could be the winner of our ‘Best Dressed’ contest!
Historical significance of Saltdean Lido:
Saltdean Lido is a Grade II Listed building, located in the heart of East Sussex, and is an iconic, art-deco style lido that first opened in 1938. It is one of the few remaining lidos of its kind in the UK and has been an integral part of the local community for many years, offering a place for leisure and positive social interaction – with a touch of 20th century nostalgia.
Saltdean Lido was designed by architect Richard Jones in the 1930s and coincided with the broader trend during the interwar period, when British seaside holidays were gaining in popularity. Lidos (open-air swimming pools) were seen as the ideal combination of swimming in safe waters, whilst being near the sea.
During the 1940s and early 1950s, Saltdean Lido was seen as a glamorous destination for those who were seeking a prestigious seaside experience. The Lido was at the heart of social life in the area; attracting both local families and holidaymakers from afar, who were looking to enjoy snippets of seaside life.
As interest in foreign holidays grew, the popularity of lidos country-wide began to decline and as a result, the majority of original lidos across the country no longer exist. Despite Saltdean Lido falling into disrepair, it underwent a stunning restoration and reopened in 2017.
Today, its architecture is considered to be the apogee of lido design; epitomising some of the best elements of the modernist movement, with The 20th Century Society deeming Saltdean Lido as "probably the most architecturally significant open-air pool in the country”. In 2018 it was named by English Heritage as one of the Seven Wonders of The English Seaside.
Why is hosting our Charleston Speakeasy at Saltdean Lido Important?
The Speakeasy, as a concept, was popularised during the 1920-1933 American Prohibition, where alcohol was banned, and secret bars emerged to maintain the popular culture of drinking and dancing. Given the fact that Saltdean Lido was built in the 1930s, holding our annual Speakeasy event there works perfectly, as the Lido’s original art deco ambiance compliments the prohibition-era atmosphere that we create within our events.
Furthermore, hosting our Speakeasy at such an iconic venue, enables the spirit of the past to be revived whilst offering a modern experience; creating a nostalgic atmosphere that mirrors the rich cultural history of the time. It appeals to the allure of the hidden, the exclusive, and the decadent; perfectly aligning with the mystique of a Speakeasy.
Using venues like the Saltdean Lido, highlights its ongoing importance as cultural/social hub, whilst allowing people to experience its uniqueness in a new, innovative way.
Events like our Speakeasy also enable individuals to establish a deeper connection with each other and the venue; fostering a sense of community whilst encouraging cultural appreciation and the preservation of heritage – bringing Saltdean Lido’s history to life in a modern-contemporary context.
We can’t wait to host our event at Saltdean Lido on 3rd May, and take advantage of the unique venue, to create an unforgettable afternoon of music, dance, and entertainment, whilst celebrating local history and maintaining its legacy through introducing future generations to the magic of this vintage venue!
By: Eleanor O’Donnell
Intro and edit by Lauren Pascolutti
Course Previews: What's on This April
Spring is well and truly underway, and we have an exciting lineup of 5 week courses after Easter. Our new term begins on 22 April; watch all the course previews here.
Spring is well and truly underway, and we have an exciting lineup of 5 week courses after Easter. Our new term begins on 22 April; watch all the course previews here!
CHARLESTON COURSE - PENCIL FULL OF LEAD
BRIGHTON & HOVE LEWES PORTSMOUTH ONLINE
Take a sneaky peek at our next Open Level Charleston Course coming up in April where we will be dancing to Pencil Full of Lead. This routine is a real crowd pleaser, combining classic choreography with a popular modern track. It’s quirky, upbeat and lots of fun! We run courses online and in the studio locations in the UK.
Available online and in studio. See dates and locations below:
Hove PM - 22 April, 6pm, Open Space Studios
Lewes - 22 April, 6:30pm, The Body Workshop
Portsmouth - 22 April, 7:30pm, CourtX
Online - 23 April, 6pm BST via Zoom
Eastbourne - 23 April, 6:30pm, Leaf Hall
Hove AM - 24 April, 10:30am, Open Space Studios
Brighton - 28 April, 7:30pm The Dance Space
MUSICALS COURSE - ‘ALL THAT JAZZ’ CHICAGO
HOVE ONLINE
Join us for our next Musicals course in April where we will be learning a routine to All That Jazz from Chicago The Musical. Featuring some of the iconic original choreography by Bob Fosse. This routine focuses on defining shapes at a steady pace and is accessible to all. Fishnets optional!
Available online and in studio. See dates and locations below:
PARTNER CHARLESTON - SOME OF THESE DAYS
24 April - Open Space Studios, 6pm - 5 week course
In our next Partner Charleston Course we will be learning a routine to Some Of These Days. This routine is inspired by some West Coast Swing steps and features the iconic Pretzel move! MyCharleston Partner Courses specialise in choreography, allowing you to develop your dance knowledge through building on the routine each week. Join us either as a pair or solo dancer - no partner swapping required!
INTERMEDIATE CHARLESTON - BOOGIE WOOGIE BUGLE BOY
24 April - Open Space Studios, 7pm - 5 week course
We are very excited to announce that in our next Intermediate Charleston course, we will be dancing to the iconic track that is ‘Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy’. This was interestingly the most popular tune during World War II, and was picked to coincide with VE Day on 8 May. For this routine, expect an A-Z catalogue of Solo Jazz moves, combining classic moves and combos. Get these under your belt, and you’ll have the knowledge to attend any intermediate Solo Jazz class!
BOOK NOW
Videos: Watch what we got up to in term one 2025
Watch the winter term routines from all our groups during the first term of 2025! These routines were taught across Brighton & Hove, Lewes, Eastbourne, Portsmouth, and online.
Watch the winter term routines from all our groups during the first term of the year! These routines were taught across Brighton & Hove, Lewes, Eastbourne, Portsmouth, and online.
Hove Morning Group
Hove Evening Group
Brighton Group
Lewes Group
Eastbourne Group
Portsmouth Group
Another Day of Sun - Musicals Group in Hove
It’s De-Lovely - Partner Charleston
Everything you need to know about ‘Who’s got the Pain’
As featured on the Fosse/Verdon series, “Who’s got the Pain’ was the only film number that Bob Fosse and Gwen Verdon performed together. We are very excited to be teaching this number for our next Charleston Musicals Course running from 24th February to the 31st of March both Online and in Brighton & Hove!
As featured on the Fosse/Verdon series, “Who’s got the Pain’ was the only film number that Bob Fosse and Gwen Verdon performed together. We are very excited to be teaching this number for our next Charleston Musicals Course running from 24th February to the 31st of March both Online and in Brighton & Hove!
This 6-week Musicals Course is a great opportunity to perfect your inner-Fosse, so you can Jazz-Hands your way into any social dance; making you so copacetic on the dance floor!
Click this link, or visit www.mycharlestondance.com to secure your place!
Want to find out more? Read on to discover why this dance is highly celebrated in the world of Jazz!
Historical Context: ‘Hands, Hips, Hats:’
As seen throughout his work, Fosse developed a distinctive choreographic style, wherein many of his routines have dancers sat into one hip with fingers flexed and hiding their eyes beneath a hat. In today’s society this is often mockingly called ‘Jazz hands’ but the terms that Fosse coined was ‘Webbing’ and ‘Spirit Fingers;’ this move is often danced in a sequence with a hat.
Although Fosse did not invent the phrase, Hands, Hips and Hats, the way he put them together and what he made them hint towards (sex, corruption, and falsity) became his in his own right. Since ‘Who’s got the Pain’ has been aired, his iconic style of dance has been imitated on Broadway, the West End and also in Pop Culture videos; most notably in Michael Jackson’s music video Beat It and II Hands II Heaven by Beyoncé; who have folded Fosse’s style into their own.
‘Who’s got the Pain’- Damn Yankees:
Thanks to the high number of streams of the miniseries Fosse/Verdon, Fosse’s name is now back in cultural conversation, as is the 1958 number Who’s got the Pain, featuring Gwen Verdon. At this point in his career, Fosse was still married to his first of three wives, Joan McCracken, but when Verdon was cast as Lola in Damn Yankees, the two created an inseparable bond.
Fun fact: Did you know that Fosse’s love of dancing in hats was in aim to hide his premature balding?
From the very beginning of the routine, Fosse and Verdon embark on a stylistic journey of stereotypical Fosse choreography. Their faces are hidden under their hats, their hips are shunting, and all angles created are crisp and clean. The body isolations, tick-tocks, and perfect synchronisation were all picked up from the African diaspora, adding to the multi-cultural elements of the dance.
This fun, eccentric dance will undoubtedly get your toes tapping as you embark on a voyage through timeless choreography full of Jazzy flare (plus the song is pretty cool too!)
Sign up today, by clicking this link, or visit www.mycharlestondance.com to secure your place!
By: Eleanor O’Donnell
Everything you need to know about Hot Honey Rag
On Saturday 8th February we are hosting our next Musicals Masterclass, and we could not be more excited for this one because Chicago is coming to Hove! Want to find out more about the history of the routine? Here is everything you need to know…
On Saturday 8th February we are hosting our next Musicals Masterclass, and we could not be more excited for this one because Chicago is coming to Hove! In this two-hour workshop, you will be able put on your finest 1920s Glad-Rags and channel your inner Velma Kelly as you master the iconic routine that is ‘Hot Honey Rag!’
Click this link to secure your place!
Want to find out more? Read on to discover why this routine is loved and celebrated by so many. Why this routine hit the theatres by storm; making it quintessential to the world of Broadway!
Now, we all know that Chicago is one of the most iconic and enduring musicals of all time. Its dazzling choreography, unforgettable songs, and sharp portrayal of crime, fame, and corruption continue to captivate audiences worldwide. Among the standout moments in Chicago is the sizzling "Hot Honey Rag," a show-stopping number that has become a symbol of the musical’s energy and flair. Let's take a closer look at the history and cultural impact of this routine.
Watch our very own routine of ‘Hot Honey Rag’ based on 2002 musical. Choreography by Rob Marshall.
The Origins of "Hot Honey Rag"
"Hot Honey Rag" first graced the stage of Broadway in Chicago, which opened in 1975. Written by John Kander (music) and Fred Ebb (lyrics), the musical is set in 1920s Chicago and tells the story of Roxie Hart, a vaudeville performer who finds herself on trial for murder. Chicago’s sleek and jazzy score pays homage to the Vaudeville and Jazz Age, and "Hot Honey Rag" is one of its standout musical numbers.
The number features a high-energy combination of music and dance that captures the essence of the Roaring Twenties; a time of excess, freedom, and rebellion. Originally, the routine was choreographed by Bob Fosse, whose signature style has gone on to define much of Chicago’s aesthetic. Fosse is known for his attention to detail and his choreography for ‘Hot Honey Rag’ is a blend of Jazz, burlesque, and vaudeville; combining quick footwork, sharp isolations, and suggestive movements in which exude sensuality and confidence. which were seen as highly provocative and daring for the time. In the production of Chicago, these moves translate into a routine that is at once, flirty and intense, and seductive and humorous; therefore upholding the power to captivate audiences around the globe!
Watch Gwen Verdon and Chita Rivera perform the 1975 choreography from the musical.
The Song and Its Power
"Hot Honey Rag" is performed in the second act of Chicago and serves as a pivotal moment in the show. Roxie Hart, having gained fame from her murder trial, joins Velma Kelly for the performance. The song itself is a catchy, jazzy tune with playful lyrics about a woman’s desire and the irresistible allure of the “Hot Honey Rag” dance, which provides the perfect backdrop for the choreography to shine!
Cultural Impact and Legacy
Since its debut, Chicago and the "Hot Honey Rag" number have left an indelible mark on musical theatre. The number has become a hallmark of Broadway and beyond, influencing the way subsequent musical theatre productions use choreography to tell a story. The incorporation of female empowerment and feminism within a musical was groundbreaking, and it has paved the way for other shows to explore similar ideals.
In a larger cultural sense, "Hot Honey Rag" is part of a greater conversation about women's agency, the commodification of fame, and the complex relationship between power and seduction. The number’s provocative energy invites us to consider the fine line between performance and reality, and glamour and the darker truths lurking beneath the surface.
As a result, it is clear that ‘Hot Honey Rag’ is more than just a routine from a musical; it is the cultural touchstone that represents the intersection of art, entertainment, and societal expectations; placing influential feminism at the heart of the performance- what more could you ask for?
Now you’ve read the history, and watched the routine what are you waiting for? Click the link or visit www.mycharlestondance.com and secure your place in being able to dance one of the most empowering routines in history!
Location: Open Space Studios, Hove
Dressing up is encouraged!
By: Eleanor O’Donnell
Videos: What's on Spring 2025
February is here, and we have an exciting lineup of events this month. Our new term of the year begins on 24th Feb, watch all the previews here.
February is here, and we have an exciting lineup of 6 week courses this month. Our new term of the year begins on 24th Feb, watch all the previews here.
CHARLESTON COURSE - STRUT MISS LIZZIE
BRIGHTON & HOVE LEWES PORTSMOUTH ONLINE
EASTBOURNE
Take a sneaky peek at our next Open Level Charleston Course coming up in February where we be dancing to Strut Miss Lizzie. We run course online and in the studio locations in the UK. See below dates and locations:
Online - 24 Feb, 6pm BST
Brighton - 24 Feb, 7:30pm The Dance Space
Hove PM - 25 Feb, Open Space Studios
Lewes - 25 Feb, 6:30pm, The BodyWorkshop
Portsmouth - 25 Feb, 7:30pm, CourtX
Eastbourne - 26 Feb, 6:30pm, Leaf Hal
Hove am - 27 Feb, 10:30am, Open Space Studios
MUSICALS COURSE - ‘WHO’S GOT THE PAIN?’ DAMN YANKEES
HOVE ONLINE
join us in our brand-new musicals course inspired by the 1958 film adaptation of Damn Yankees. We chose this routine as it’s a standout moment in Musical theatre featuring Bob Fosse and Gwen Verdon—the only time they performed together on film. The number is an example of Fosse's early choreographic style and we can’t wait to bring it to life both online and in studio
Course available online and instudio
24 Feb - 7pm GMT - Via Zoom
25 Feb - 7pm - Open Space Studios, Hove
PARTNER CHARLESTON - PARLA PIU PIANO
27 Feb - Open Space Studios, 6pm - 6 week course
Take a look at what's in store in our 1920s Partner Charleston Course which runs every Thursday at 6pm. If you fancy giving it a go, you can sign up to the next course either as a pair or solo dancer and join us from 27 Feb for the next course.
INTERMEDIATE CHARLESTON - IT DON’T MEAN A THING
BOOK NOW
27th Feb - Open Space Studios, 7pm - 6 week course
We are very excited to share a clip of our next intermediate Charleston routine. Set to the tune ‘It Don’t Mean a Thing’ it’s a real crowd pleaser. Take a little look at what Fiona has planned and join her from 27th Jan, 7pm at Open Space Studios in Hove.
Videos: Watch Pennies From Heaven, Bad Guys and Hold Tight
Watch the winter term routines from all our groups during the final term of 2024! These routines were taught across Brighton & Hove, Lewes, Eastbourne, Portsmouth, and online.
Watch the winter term routines from all our groups during the final term of 2024! These routines were taught across Brighton & Hove, Lewes, Eastbourne, Portsmouth, and online.
Hove Morning Group
Hove Evening Group
Brighton Group
Lewes Group
Eastbourne Group
Portsmouth Group
Bad Guys - Musicals Group in Hove
Bad Guys - Musicals Group, Online
Hold Tight - Solo Jazz in Hove
Musicals: What’s on Spring 2025
This spring, our musical dance classes offer an exciting lineup for 2025! Join us for two dynamic 6-week courses featuring routines from La La Land's "Another Day of Sun" in January and Damn Yankees' "Who’s Got the Pain," in February. You'll master iconic choreography and bring these show-stopping numbers to life. Additionally, don't miss our weekend masterclass focused on the thrilling closing number from Chicago, "Hot Honey Rag,".
This spring, our musical dance classes offer an exciting lineup for 2025! Join us for two dynamic 6-week courses featuring routines from La La Land's "Another Day of Sun" in January and Damn Yankees' "Who’s Got the Pain," in February. You'll master iconic choreography and bring these show-stopping numbers to life. Additionally, don't miss our weekend masterclass focused on the thrilling closing number from Chicago, "Hot Honey Rag,". See below for full details and routine previews.
La La Land - Another Day of Sun
Mon 6 Jan - 7pm GMT - Via Zoom - BOOK NOW
Tues 7 Jan - 7pm - Open Space Studios, Hove - BOOK NOW
The opening song "Another Day of Sun" from the musical La La Land is a vibrant and dynamic sequence that sets the tone for the film. Performed on a crowded Los Angeles freeway, it features drivers leaping from their cars to sing and dance in a dazzling celebration of hope, ambition, and the pursuit of dreams. Its striking visuals and joyous spirit make it an unforgettable introduction to the story.
The dance routine "Who’s Got the Pain?" from the 1958 film adaptation of Damn Yankees is a standout moment featuring Bob Fosse and Gwen Verdon—the only time they performed together on film. The number, an example of Fosse's early choreographic style, is not connected to the plot but serves as a playful showcase of their chemistry. We can’t wait to bring this routine to life in February 2025.
Original Video - Who’s Got the Pain
Hot Honey Rag - Chicago Masterclasss
Date: 8th Feb 2-4pm
Location: Open Space Studios, Hove
Learn the iconic routine ‘Hot Honey Rag’ at our next Musicals Masterclass. In this two hour workshop you will master the breathtaking closing routine from the hit musical Chicago. This is a high-energy, vaudeville-style routine that captures the dazzling spectacle and dark humor of the show. Performed by Velma Kelly and Roxie Hart, it showcases their newfound partnership as they revel in their fame and freedom. The choreography, originally crafted by Bob Fosse, is iconic for its sharp, syncopated movements and intricate jazz-inspired style.
If you would like to find out more, please email us on hello@mycharlestondance.com
Videos: Christmas Speakeasy
The Christmas Speakeasy was a dazzling evening of glitz and glamour, where everyone hit the dance floor in their boogie shoes and celebrated with us. We were thrilled to highlight the incredible talent from our classes and see so many students take the stage to perform alongside us. Here are the four routines from the night for you to watch and enjoy plus our highlights video.
The Black Bottom - Performed by our Intermediate Group
‘Rhythm of Life’ - Sweet Charity - Performed by our Musicals Group
‘I’ll Always be In Love With You’ - Partner Group our Musicals Group
The Charleston - Performed by our Open Level Students
Please save the date for our Summer Speakeasy at Brighton Spiegeltent tent on 17th May and our 1920s Tea Dance on Worthing Pier on 29th June.
Strictly Review: Chris McCausland & Dianne Buswell
Last Saturday, Strictly Come Dancing presented their Semi-Final of the 2024 series and it was Comedian Chris McCausland and his professional partner Dianne Buswell’s turn to swivel their way onto the dance floor with a Charleston. Did you agree with the Judges scores?
Last Saturday, Strictly Come Dancing presented their Semi-Final of the 2024 series, and the dancers really stepped up their game, as each couple danced 2 routines ranging from a graceful Waltz and a Salsa danced by Tasha and Aliaz to Pete and Jowita’s beautiful Argentine Tango and Foxtrot; they really did have it all.
In amongst the different routines, it was Comedian Chris McCausland and his professional partner Dianne Buswell’s turn to swivel their way onto the dance floor with a Charleston, set to the tune When You’re Smiling by The Blue Vipers of Brooklyn choreographed by Tommy Franzen and Lizzie Gough.
This wholesome Charleston appeared to be controversial, where some viewers loved the routine and were furious with Craig awarding a 7, whereas others were in agreement with his score.
But what did you think? We’d love to hear your thoughts.
The routine opens with Chris and Dianne floating down onto the stage in a hot air balloon, foreshadowing the fun element of the Charleston, as they dodge a hologram of a seagull and Chris’ ‘gag’ with the telescope; adding to the comedic value from the outset.
After a few bars of music, the pair emerge from behind the basket, take centre stage, and immediately break into a partnered sequence in hold, consisting of Kicks, Flicks, Truckin’ (you can learn to how to Truck here) and a series of Basic 1920s Charleston Swivels.
At 0:58, the couple then complete an astonishing lift- where Chris throws Dianne over his shoulder, after which they jump up into the air, and then fall to the ground to dance some ‘Floor-Ography’ moves; perfectly in synch with one and other!
Later on, at 1:17, the pair come together once again for another partner sequence in hold, with numerous Kick Charlestons, and another Lift where Dianne flips herself over Chris’ back as she snazzily swaggers across the Ballroom; further establishing that cheeky Charleston vibe!
Nearing the end, at 1:34, the couple simultaneously complete a mini comedic sketch, before dancing a series of Knocky Knees, Bunny Hops, and a few Charleston Swivels.
As the pair bound back up the Ballroom towards the hot air balloon, Chris and Dianne have just enough time to complete a Morecambe and Wise inspired Kick, before racing into the basket where they pull smiley faces to the match the lyricism of the song and Dianne hops onto Chris’ back for their final pose- leaving the crowd screaming in delight!
I, for one, really loved this Charleston! Although this routine wasn’t danced at the traditional fast pace, it suited their partnership beautifully (and had me sobbing throughout). Dianne is such an incredible choreographer with the way she gives Chris small, subtle clues as to what the next move is. For me Chris is the epitome of pure joy, and each time I watch him dance, he reminds me that anyone can achieve anything if they put their heart and soul into it. In my opinion, this is exactly what dance is meant to do; it is meant to mean something- and this partnership really does!
It is clear that I was not alone in my opinions, as one critic exclaimed that they thought this routine “[Had] great synchronicity, which is even better when you take into consideration that he’s blind” and another stated “Great swivel and superb musicality- this routine confirmed for me that they deserve to be in the final.”
It seems that most of the Judges were also in agreement with as Motsi Mabuse stated it had “Swag [and] great rhythm,” with Shirley echoing this point with the abstract analogy that Chris and Dianne were, “Like two snowmen in the snow on the floor- perfect timing!” However, Craig Revel-Horwood, opened the Judges comments with a rather patronising statement highlighting how it “wasn’t messy actually” and the routine was “Under-energised” to which the other three Judges (and the audience) quickly disagreed. Despite beginning with these comments, even Craig could not stay too serious for long as he concluded that he “Loved the Swivel!”
Due to this high praise and the fantastic comments from the critics, the pair have managed to avoid the dreaded Dance-Off and successfully swivel their way into next week’s Final of the series.
Scores:
Craig Revel Horwood - 7
Motsi Mabuse – 8
Shirley Ballas – 9
Anton Du Beke – 9
MyCharleston – 8
By: Eleanor O’Donnell